‘Idaho Man’ Gives Hope for the Future through Volunteering – Opinion

Last week’s Florida CPAC 2022 was so intense that we had to take a short break from Feel-Good Friday. But we’re back on track, and visiting Idaho Falls, Idaho for this week’s uplifting story. Everyone has heard of “Florida Man,” and you know when this leads any headline, the story will be something… interesting. But this “Idaho Man” lead in portends nothing but good!

Ashley Home Stores of Idaho Falls partners with East Idaho News for its “Feel Good Friday” segments, highlighting people who are doing good for the local community and giving them recognition and honor. This week, they received emails and letters honoring a man named, “Jerry,” who volunteers in the kindergarten class at the Bush Elementary School.

Bush Elementary has had Jerry as an incredible help this school year. He is a true volunteer and has an infectious passion for working with children. Volunteering in the kindergarten classroom, he takes time from his day to help our teachers (or wherever we are needed), is a way for him to give back. Also, he helps with after-school programs. He politely refused to accept pay because he enjoys doing what he does. He’s so loving and caring to all the children and has been an invaluable asset for our school.

Jerry talks openly about his passion for helping these children and the reasons he gives it.

“If I’m alive, I’ll be here,” he said.

These people are not the only ones who can benefit from volunteering. StartJerry will give Jerry his life but Jerry will also invest in their quality lives.

“I’m getting paid more than anybody could ever pay me,” Jerry said.

As parents across the nation battle against teachers unions and school boards for control and involvement in their children’s curriculum and education, Jerry shows the way to do this by his involvement and the positive impact it has on the children, as well as the teachers. It is a fact that the Catholic School community in Brevard County Fla., has known for years. They highlight its many benefits.

The presence of other people is a benefit for both children and adults. Community helps us feel connected and included. It is vital for children to learn about the world and its place within it. Here’s how being involved in the community helps children thrive.

People do best when they feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. This sense of belonging is especially important for children. This allows children to identify their strengths and where they can fit in. It is important for children to be able to count on others when they are in need of help.

Bush Elementary’s kindergarteners are confident they can count on Jerry. Jerry also knows that he can count upon the children and the Idaho Falls community. The world is a better place because of the interdependence between individual and community involvement.

There is a lot of ugliness going on in our nation, and in our world right now, which is why we need stories like Jerry’s. Because children are the future of our country, his investment in them reflects his optimism.